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Stories & Imaginings >> Cookies & Drabbles >> An Alternative Romance - Part IV
(Message started by: Catherine_B on Nov 12th, 2003, 7:26pm)

Title: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 12th, 2003, 7:26pm
Seeing as the last thread has gone to the dogs... ;)
One old post, and one new.

Could a kind mod please archive & link?  Thank you!
anything to oblige ;)
part one (http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altrom.html)
part two (http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altromance2.htm)
part three (http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altrom3.html)
Vikki :-*
---

“Um… Nancy?” The partners were at Hilary’s again, a month after their first weekend there.  They had worried that it was rather soon to be going away again as a pair, but neither had been able to resist Hilary’s invitation.  As Kathie had put it, there were some things for which one just couldn’t wait!
“Mmm?”  Nancy rolled over on their double bed and propped herself up on her elbows.  “What is it, sweetheart?”
Her partner gazed at her pensively.  “I want to ask you something.”
“Well, go ahead then,” Nancy smiled.
“It’s about what you were saying the other day – about what you did during the war.”
Nancy looked extraordinarily demure.  “About my statistical research, you mean?”
“No – well, not exactly.  Scintillating though it was,” Kathie saw her friend’s lips twitching.  “Oh, all right, if you’re going to make me say it.  All those men you were living with, Nancy!  Were you never tempted?”
Nancy laughed.  “We-ell…” she drawled.  For once, she was in a mood to tease.  “There were an awful lot of them.  Some rather handsome.  And several interested in me.”
Kathie arched an eyebrow.  “You seem very sure of that.”
“My dear, does it surprise you?” Nancy lay back on the bed.  “Surely you didn’t think you were the first to notice my charms.”
“Humph!”  Kathie gave her lover a mock frown.  “Never mind that.  Tell me what you thought of them, please.”
Her friend chuckled.  “Well, they were excellent mathematicians…”
“Nancy Wilmot!”

“Oh, all right, all right!” Nancy gave way as Kathie showed signs that she would start extracting an answer through physical force.  “No, I don’t think I was tempted.  I suppose I thought of myself as a blue-stocking, really – although several of them evidently saw me in a different light.”
“Really?”  Kathie found it hard to believe.  “I mean, really, you thought of yourself as a dry, academic, bookish type?”
“Well… yes.  I was interested in my work.  So it didn’t seem particularly strange, to me.”
“But, but -” her lover couldn’t find a less direct way of putting it, “You’re so attractive, Nancy.    How could you possibly not realise?”
Nancy smiled at her.  “Well, I guess I just didn’t.”  The teasing note had disappeared from her voice.  “I suppose I was never interested in men, and it didn’t occur to me that there was an alternative.”  She paused.  “I don’t mean that I disliked my body, Kathie.  I never minded about being plump, even if people teased me.  It’s more that…” she looked shy all of a sudden, “I didn’t realise that there was anything to enjoy.”
Kathie tucked away a strand of golden hair that was falling into Nancy’s eyes.  “You’ve changed your mind on that one, though.”  It was more statement than question.
“Yes.  Or you have.”  Nancy looked up at her partner.  “You’ve taught me a lot about myself, Kathie.”
“My pleasure,” the younger woman remarked gently.  


Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 12th, 2003, 7:26pm
“God’s in His Heaven, all’s right with the world,” quoted Nancy Wilmot to herself, happily.  It was a crisp Sunday morning in early November, and she was accompanying Va to the early service at the Protestant Church on the Platz.  Her partner had recently returned from a break in England, and Nancy had to admit that, although she had originally groused about them spending half-term apart, everything had been for the best.  Kathie had returned in high spirits, with the additional good news that Auntie and Uncle had consented willingly to her spending a fortnight over New Year with her “great friend” from school.  Nancy smiled to herself inwardly as she contemplated this delightful prospect.
“Come along, girls!  We’re nearly there.”
Her charges looked appreciatively at their attractive form mistress, several noting that she looked especially jolly this morning.

Once at the church, Nancy slipped into the simple wooden pew close to her pupils.  Always committed in her religious observance, she had felt her faith deepening over the last few months.  Now she bent her head in silent prayer for a brief moment before the service began, and sent up the simple but heartfelt vote of thanks with which she started every day.  “Thank You – for my job and for Kathie.”  Then she settled back comfortably to enjoy the organ music that preceded the service.  

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 12th, 2003, 7:30pm
Awwww! That's lovely Catherine!!
Do we get to see their fortnight together? ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 12th, 2003, 7:32pm
Thanks, Catherine. More please!

Hadn't you better watch it before you call people names? You've not been victimised- much- in drabbles yet, have you?

H'mmmmmmmmmmmmm

*off to ponder* ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 12th, 2003, 7:35pm
I wasn't calling anyone names!  I was merely referring to the alcohol that got sloshed around on the last thread.  

*babbles incoherently at the thought of victimisation at Lisa's hands*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by PatW on Nov 12th, 2003, 8:09pm
Please don't say we're going to have a sermon that will upset her?!!  That horrible thought crossed my mind as I read the last posting.  There are still anit-gay/lesbian clerics now, so there must have been so many more then!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 12th, 2003, 9:54pm

on 11/12/03 at 19:35:07, Catherine_B wrote:
*babbles incoherently at the thought of victimisation at Lisa's hands*


*waits with a bucket of icy water for Catherine to regain her senses*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 12th, 2003, 9:59pm
Love the posts Catherine - more please! And I bet we're about to reach some of the 'pain and suffering' ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by xanthe on Nov 12th, 2003, 10:52pm
Ooh, thank you Catherine  ;D

*wishing "pain and suffering" NOT necessary, but reassured by the fact it's bound to be well written and realistic*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 13th, 2003, 12:24am
(Not much of my own in this post - more later).

(Btw, for anyone who wonders, I've used the New International Version of the Bible here, which technically is wrong for this story because it wasn't published until the 1960s.  However I thought the King James Version, which is presumably what they'd have been using - correct me if I'm wrong - would be harder for you all to follow.  And I wanted the meaning to come across clearly.  So bear with me...)

--

“The text today is taken from Paul’s letter to the Romans, Chapter 1, Verses 18:32”

Kathie pulled a face to herself inwardly.  This was certainly not one of her favourite Bible excerpts.  ‘What bad luck’ she thought, as she sat back to listen.

“… God gave these men over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones.  In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion...”

Kathie felt an icy shiver run down her spine.  ‘Is it just bad luck?’ she thought with some alarm, as the priest’s voice continued ponderously.  

“... Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.  They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless.  Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.”

Kathie closed her eyes momentarily.  St. Paul’s description seemed so alien.  ‘Surely I’m imagining things?’ she forced herself to be calm.  But she was left in no doubt as the priest continued to the sermon.  

“My children,” he began, “God created man and woman with marriage as His ideal.  Yet there are those who reject His truth, who turn away from His light.  In this passage St. Paul shows us what happens to these people who yield to the temptations of the flesh, and who sin against the natural order ordained by our Creator…”

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by xanthe on Nov 13th, 2003, 12:30am
Oh no!  :'( poor Kathie

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Esmeralda on Nov 13th, 2003, 12:38am
Interesting!   There are several avenues which could be explored here - waiting with bated breath to see which one you choose...

More soom please

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 13th, 2003, 12:52am
Awww! Poor Kathie and Nancy!!
*wonders what's going to happen next*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 13th, 2003, 1:10am
Last one for the night...
--

For a moment the young mistress's head span.  Her heart was hammering, and from the corner of her eye she could see Nancy’s face.  Was it her imagination, or did it look paler than usual?  Then her instinct for self-preservation kicked in and with a huge effort she pulled herself together.  ‘Block out the words, Kathie’ she instructed herself fiercely, ‘Just try to look normal – like on an ordinary Sunday.  Sober, interested and dispassionate.’  She fixed her eyes devotedly upon the priest, ignored the glances that were being cast in her direction – or was she inventing them? – and forced herself with all her will-power not to look at Nancy.  

Never in Kathie’s memory had a service dragged on for so long.  For the first time ever she was completely unable to worship, and merely went through the motions for the final prayers and blessings, while all the time maintaining as reverent an appearance as possible.  Leaving the Church at the end of the service, she raised her eyes to meet the priest’s gaze, and shook his hand.  “Thank you, Minister,” she said with a pleasant smile that dispelled the doubts of a number of onlookers.  Then she herded her flock out into the sunshine.  “Come along, girls – we mustn’t hold up the Minister before his next service.”  Kathie smiled and joked with her pupils as they walked back towards the school, and no one could have observed from her appearance that anything out of the ordinary had occurred.  Yet beneath her calm exterior, she was absolutely rigid with fear…

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 13th, 2003, 5:03am
Oh, goodness, poor Kathie and Nancy. Like Esmeralda, I can see several possible routes for these characters and this story to take, and it will be interesting to see which one is chosen.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by PatW on Nov 13th, 2003, 8:31am
OH no!  That's exactly what |I was afraid woud happen!  Especially when Nancy had been so happy going into the service.  It was that that made me suspicious!  :'( :'(

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Rachael P on Nov 13th, 2003, 8:42am
Oh, how awful - it must have been dreadful for them having to sit through that

This should be interesting - especially as the Bible can generally be interpreted to suit people's beliefs/prejudices.
I don't envy them but they do need to have a heart-to-heart about the implications of a long-term relationship and how secret they can practically keep it and what to do as people find out ....

Wonder whether we'll find out who the doubting onlookers are?

I think you're handling this fantastically, Catherine  :)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Emma_N on Nov 13th, 2003, 7:31pm
This story is brilliantly written Catherine. Poor Kathy and poor Nancy.  :'( :'(

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 13th, 2003, 8:39pm
That day was hell for Kathie.  She longed with all her being to search out Nancy, to share the pain of the morning’s experience, and to discuss their future strategies.  Yet she was keenly aware that the sermon must have been brought on by malicious gossips, who would no doubt be watching her movements now.  She suppressed her desires mercilessly and forced herself to stay in public, chatting with her pupils and colleagues.

“Penny for your thoughts, Kathie?” Ruth Derwent glanced over at the junior geography mistress at Mittagessen.
The younger woman flashed her a quick smile.  “Oh, I was just thinking about Jo’s play,” she replied easily.  “My form have been awfully thrilled about it – especially Len and Con. They’ll have speaking parts for the first time, you know, this year.”
The Senior Mistress nodded.  “I heard them holding forth on the subject,” she agreed in amusement.  
“You’d think they were performing in Stratford, to hear their excitement” laughed Peggy Burnett, at her side.
“Oh, it’s all good fun,” Vb’s form mistress came to the defence of her pupils.  “And they are proper Seniors now, after all.”
Kathie kept the conversation running for some time on the topic of the Christmas play.  She had been an enthusiastic member of her college’s dramatic society, and had plenty of ready comments on the school’s upcoming production.  On this occasion she blessed her acting experience, for she could hardly have survived the meal without it.  

Abendessen, however, was another matter.  Nancy, who had been quiet throughout lunch, was missing from the table.  Kathie’s first reaction was one of exasperation, her next of serious concern.  ‘Surely Nancy knows people will speculate about her absence,’ she thought anxiously.  ‘Where on earth is she?’   By dint of sheer determination she made it through the meal without betraying her fears, but after the final Grace was said, she moved quickly, intending to head for the doors of the Speisesaal.  

“Kathie?” The head of geography’s voice pulled the younger woman up short.  “Could I have a word?”
“Oh – Rosalind.  Yes – that is – could it wait for a moment?”  Kathie could only just suppress her agitation.  
“It won’t take a second,” her senior smiled pleasantly.  She laid a hand on Kathie’s arm, and held her to one side as the other mistresses passed by.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Chloe on Nov 13th, 2003, 8:54pm
Oh NO you can't leave it there i'll never get to sleep :(

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 13th, 2003, 8:56pm
More please, Catherine!  What's happened?  Does Rosalind know?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 13th, 2003, 9:04pm
Can we be hopeful in that she is smiling pleasantly, or is this just a cover?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 13th, 2003, 9:05pm

Quote:
you can't leave it there i'll never get to sleep


Why are you trying to sleep now anyway, Chloe?  *snorts unsympathetically!*

Urghh - I've got to mark six assignments this evening which I sooooooo don't want to do.  I was really evil today, flamed a couple of my students for not handing their work in on time (when in fact I was all too glad to have an excuse to postpone the tutorial, because I hadn't done any preparation at all!!!  ;D) and had the satisfaction of receiving grovelly emails in response.  But now I have to read a whole stack of vile essays.  I'd much much rather be writing this...........


Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Chloe on Nov 13th, 2003, 9:39pm
As i've not actually been to bed before three in the morning for the past three weeks and am out tommorrow evening/night and then i have to spend saturday from 9 til 6 at a recuriment drive in sainsbury's and have no free lessons :(

I feel that gives me the right to go to bed before ten o'clock ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 13th, 2003, 9:46pm
I should think it does!  You must be exhausted, Chloe!  Sleep well!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 13th, 2003, 10:06pm
Oh, poor Chloe!  I take back all my heedless comments and hope you get a good night's sleep!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 13th, 2003, 10:23pm
Never mind all that Catherine! Where's the next post? ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Kathryn on Nov 13th, 2003, 10:33pm
Second that. Please let Rosalind have some nice advice rather than anything else.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 13th, 2003, 11:06pm
Catherine, pleeeeeease post some more tonight!! :)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Rachel on Nov 13th, 2003, 11:16pm
Catherine, this is great! You're tackling a difficult subject really well. It must be hard dealing with all the prejudices that were around at the time, and yet making a believable story, where we want to see Nancy and kathie overcome all the  prejudice and hatreds! (too many prejudice's in that sentence, but my brain can't think of an alternative!)

When do we get some more?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 13th, 2003, 11:45pm
“Don’t be a fool, Kathie!” Rosalind’s voice was gentle but insistent.  “Running after Nancy won’t help either of you right now.”
“I – what?” The younger woman stared at her head of department in shock.
“For goodness sake.  Where do you think today’s sermon came from?” Rosalind was still holding on to her colleague’s arm.  “If you go haring off to join Nancy, you’ll only add fuel to the rumours.”  
“You – how -?” Kathie was almost speechless.
“Never mind that for now.”  Rosalind’s eyes softened as she saw her junior’s distress, “No, Kathie, I don’t judge you.  But you need to be careful – both of you.  There are people in this community who wish you ill, though I regret saying so.”
The younger woman was regaining her composure with an effort.  “All right, but – but what now?  Nancy’s disappeared – she may be in trouble – I need to find her - ”
“Be calm,” the voice was compassionate.  “Panicking won’t help.”  
There was a pause as Kathie struggled to accept this advice.  
“Go to the staffroom and make yourself busy – mark papers or read a book,” Rosalind directed her firmly.  “No, I know you don’t want to.  But it will make matters worse, I tell you, if you disappear now.  I’ll look for Nancy – and I promise on my honour to send for you if there’s anything wrong.  Do you understand?”
Kathie nodded mutely.
“Good.”  Rosalind gave her arm a slight squeeze.  “Be brave, Kathie.  You'll need to.”

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 13th, 2003, 11:46pm
Oh, poor Kathie and Nancy. As for you, Catherine, leaving stories in such awful places, I just hope there are a few roles for you in Tara and Satan...

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 13th, 2003, 11:52pm
*feeling very sorry for Kathie and Nancy!!*
*wondering who has it in for them*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:31am
Also feeling sorry for Nancy and Kathie and liking Rosalind lots.

Who could the bigots be???

More please Catherine!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:41am
For the last time that day, Kathie cloaked her emotions and headed for a public environment.  She entered the staffroom looking quite unruffled, and settled at her desk by the door to mull over a set of papers submitted by Inter V for the next day’s geography lesson.  

“Working on a Sunday evening?” Little Miss Andrews glance over at her fellow Staff Baby with mock disapproval.
“Oh, Sharlie!” Kathie gave a rueful sigh.  “I’d much rather not – but this lot have made such a mess of coastal geography that I’ll never get through it otherwise.”  She smiled at her colleague and buried her head once more in the intricacies of erosion and attrition as explained by Margot Maynard and her contemporaries.  Too all intents and purposes she seemed quite absorbed by her work, and only a very shrewd observer indeed would have noticed that she marked one piece of work twice, and another not at all.

An hour later there was a knock on the staffroom door.  “Miss Ferrars?”  The Head Girl, Mary-Lou Trelawney, popped her head around the door.  “May I come in?  Miss Moore asked me to deliver this note.”
“Ah, Mary-Lou,” Kathie gave a relaxed stretch.  “Yes, I’ll take that.” She nodded companionably at the girl whom she had once misjudged so badly, and whom she now counted as a friend. “Thank you very much for bringing it.”

--

Five minutes later, Kathie was slipping out of the school’s side door.  
“Rosalind?”
“Here.” A torch swung round in her direction.
“Where is she?  Is she all right?”
“Down by the shrubbery.”  The older woman answered only the first question.
“What’s wrong?” Kathie gripped her colleague’s wrist.  “Tell me.”
Rosalind winced at her friend’s firm grasp.  “Nothing – at least nothing physical.”  She hesitated fractionally.  “But she’s distressed, Kathie.  I couldn’t get her to talk to me.”
Kathie released her hold.  “Sorry, Rosalind, I didn’t mean to hurt you,” she glanced at her senior.
“Forget it,” the head of geography shook her head impatiently.  “But do you want me to come with you?”
“No-o,” Kathie said slowly.  “No, Rosalind, I’ll go alone.”  She paused.  “But thank you.”  She nodded at her colleague, then turned and headed out into the dark school grounds.


Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:49am
*hopes Catherine wasn't planning on leaving it there.....*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:51am
Hmm, this is very interesting. I'm glad Rosalind is behind them, as otherwise it would make things very awkward for Kathie. And I don't think Nancy is going to be easily calmed after this...

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:56am

on 11/14/03 at 00:49:54, Vikki wrote:
*hopes Catherine wasn't planning on leaving it there.....*


Well, yes, for tonight!  I'm going to have to get up at 5 o'clock as it is to mark these b****y essays  :o

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:58am
Isn't that four hours away or something? *just being helpful*

Okay, do go to bed, Catherine, and have a good night's sleep. We'll be patient - or try to be.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:00am
Sleep well Catherine!!
*vows to prove to KB that she can be patient!!!*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:03am
Catherine!!

Rachel, you know what we were discussing earlier?...Would you accept Catherine_B instead..?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:05am
*reminds Vikki that we don't want an apoplectic 2nd Pree either, especially as I'm non est, still being unconscious*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:12am
*decides to ignore provoking comments!*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:14am
:o Me, provoking?! :o Never!!! >:(

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Kathryn on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:17am

on 11/14/03 at 01:05:08, KB wrote:
*reminds Vikki that we don't want an apoplectic 2nd Pree either, especially as I'm non est, still being unconscious*


I always see that as lying there for a long time as 'in still waiting for someone to pick me up!' rather than being unconscious.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:21am
Sounds good to me. Anything to avoid the heat! :o Why don't we have a sweating smiley?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:30am
Well, now you know how we felt in August!!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:31am
*decides not to bother arguing about the weather, apart from saying that at least your country doesn't have a dirty great desert in the middle of it*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:37am
*admits KB has a weeny point there!*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 1:42am
*doesn't know how Vikki could really deny it*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Esmeralda on Nov 14th, 2003, 4:29am
Also wondering who the bigots are, but very glad that Rosalind is on Kathie & Nancy's side.
Obviously  they haven't been quite as discreet as they had believed.
Hoping there will be more tomorrow, or rather tonight.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 7:14am
Kathie found her partner sitting under an old pine tree at the end of the shrubbery.  She was huddled up into a tight ball, and was rocking too and fro, as though in physical pain.
She did not look up as the sound of her friend’s footsteps approached.

The younger woman looked down at her lover.  She searched helplessly for words that could express her sympathy and pity, but found none.
“Are you all right?” she asked.  
There was no reply, save a barely perceptible shrug of Nancy’s shoulders.
“Nancy,” her companion’s voice was insistent, “Please, talk to me.  Are you all right?”
The older woman looked up briefly, and Kathie gasped at her deathly pale face.  All the life seemed to have drained from her friend’s eyes.  “Does it matter?”  She returned her gaze to the ground.
“Of course it does -” Kathie broke off as her sharp eyes spotted something in her friend’s hands.  “What’s that, Nancy?”
Nancy turned her head away from her partner, who barely caught the next words.  “I’m resigning, Kathie.”

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 7:33am
*gulp* Oh, poor Nancy! :'(

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Rachael P on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:06am
Oh, god! No!  :(

This is awful - I like Roasalind, she's proving to be compassionate but poor N&K ...........

Please post lots more and soon, Catherine!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:15am
Well.... I'll do a deal.  I've got the next bit written, and I do want to finish the drabble before I leave for Africa on Sunday.  But I've also spent the last month writing and rewriting the next few scenes, so I'm not going to release them without at least a little chanting  *pulls a provoking face*.  Help me to help you - otherewise I'll leave it on the hugest cliff come Saturday night... ;) ;) ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:49am
*suggests a mod deletes the thread right before Catherine leaves, so that she can put the new parts up when she comes back and we will only have to go cliff-hanging if we want to* ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:54am
:P :P

Fine!!  You can wait then!!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:00am
*lol* Hey, that was just my opinion! If you want to get lynched by the rest of the board, that's your problem. *finds a nice hiding place*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Katarzyna on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:12am
Don't be mean - please post the next bit
pretty please
with cherries on top.....

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:01am
Don't make the rest of us suffer for KB's cheek.

I'm glad Rosalind is a friend to them, but who elese has huessed, and how has the gossip escaped the staff room and reached the wider Platz community, which if the pastor has heard it must have done.

Are we going to have a feast of this story over the next few days if you want to finish it before going away?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:09am
You mean you want all those details?  <urk!>  





Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:17am
Well, that's what happens when you start something like that!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Rachael P on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:29am
Pretty, please Catherine!

I really want to know more - and I posted the rest of Thekla this morning  :D

*begs*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:11pm
Hmm, OK, I may have to leave the story at a natural pause in that case (not exactly a cliff!).  Will have to think about that - would like to get some sleep over the next two nights ;)  But anyway, here's the next bit...

--

“What?” Kathie exclaimed.  Diminutive woman though she was, she hauled her partner to her feet with one swift movement.  “What on earth are you talking about?”
Nancy looked at her emotionlessly.  “I’m submitting my resignation,” she repeated.
“Without even consulting me?” Kathie couldn’t believe her ears.  Then she caught sight of her friend’s face, and blenched.  “Oh, no, Nancy.  You must be joking.  You can’t possibly walk out on what we have together.  I won’t let you.”  Her voice rose desperately.
“What we have?” Nancy ignored the last part.  “What’s that, Kathie?  An unnatural union?”
“No!  How can you say that?”
“Didn’t you hear the priest this morning?”  Nancy’s tones were dull.  “Immoral passions - ”
“Nancy – please - for goodness’ sake, listen to me - ”
“What we’re doing is wrong - ”
“No!” Kathie’ was beside herself.  “How can you even repeat such things?  I can’t believe you’re letting someone reduce what we have to – to – lust.”  Her expression was one of total outrage.  “Do you honestly think I only care about your body?”
Nancy flinched at her partner’s wrath.   “Kathie, I -  ”
“Love, Nancy,” Kathie’s eyes were flaming.  “Tell me what’s wrong with that.”

There was an agonizing silence.
“I don’t know,” said Nancy at last, in barely audible tones.  “But the priest – the Bible - ”  a look of indescribable pain crossed her face., “Kathie, for some reason that I honestly don’t understand, what we’re doing is – is a sin.”  She forced herself to continue.  “And I’ve led you into it.”
“What?” The younger woman looked incredulous.  “You led me?”
“I’m older – I take responsibility,” Nancy whispered.  Her eyes filled with tears.  “You’re hardly more than a child.”
“Oh!” Kathie reeled as though she had been struck by a physical blow.  “No - ” as Nancy started forward to catch her, “I’ll be all right – just don't go anywhere -” she took a couple of steps backwards, then turned and disappeared behind the shrubbery.  The sound of retching carried back to her partner.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Esmeralda on Nov 14th, 2003, 12:45pm
Catharine - I would really like to know all the details too.  I'd rather see the story left at a natural pause and find out all the details than see it wrapped up quickly - but I don't want to deprive you of sleep either.
Having said that, it is your story, so it's really up to you what you decide to do with it.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by xanthe on Nov 14th, 2003, 3:19pm
*DESPARATE for some more*

please, please, please *grovels shamelessly*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 14th, 2003, 4:55pm
*also desperate to know more*

Catherine, this is great stuff. Frankly, I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I have done. We-. Oops. Congratulations! ;D

My stupid pup is barking her head off at her water bowl- its got a very clear mirror like surface and she can see herself only too well in it. Thus the yaps!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 8:51pm
Oh, poor Nancy! Poor, poor Nancy! And Kathie, too, if Nancy is going to be stubborn.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 14th, 2003, 8:55pm
*wonders what Catherine calls a cliffhanger/ unnatural pause if she's happy to go off gallivanting while leaving people spewing in the shrubbery*


Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:29pm
*considers that Lisa is being rather coarse*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:33pm
Nancy leant exhaustedly against the old pine tree.  She was completely drained from the day’s events, and the knowledge that she had just inflicted a devastating blow on the person she cared about most in the world made things even worse.   But it was the only thing to be done, she thought unhappily.  Giving up the attempt to reason logically, she closed her eyes and rested against the tree, waiting for her partner to return.  

“Nancy?”  She opened her eyes again as her friend appeared a few minutes later.  The Kathie Ferrars before her was a different woman, her face pale and drawn.
“Kathie?  Are you all right?” It was Nancy’s turn to ask this question.
“Does it matter?” The younger woman gave a weak smile.  “Oh, I’ll be fine.  Don’t worry.”
There was a pause.
“Kathie, I - ”  Nancy stumbled over her words, “I’m sorry for calling you a child – I didn’t mean it like that - ”
“You’ve said nobler things.” Kathie tried to speak lightly.  “No, Nancy, please just listen to me.  I don’t think you’re right – about what we’re doing being a sin.  No - ” she held up her hand to stop her friend interrupting.  “Just let me finish. I don’t think you’re right, but that’s not what I wanted to say now.”  She took a huge breath.  “Nancy, our love is so much more than the merely physical.  We can talk about that part of it later – I doubt that either of us could discuss Scripture now - but you mustn’t, you absolutely mustn’t, turn your back on everything else we have together.”  Her voice was pleading.
“What do you mean, Kathie?” Her colleague’s voice was quiet.
“We love one another, Nancy.  There’s no way I’m letting you go anywhere without me.  Even if it means just ‘great friends.’”  Kathie’s tone was resolute now, though her face was white.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:39pm
Good for Kathie's resolution!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 14th, 2003, 9:54pm
Catherine, please,please,please,please,please post more of this story!

*Feeling desperately sorry for both Nancy and Kathie - would like to consign all those bigots to Hell itself!*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Emma_N on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:01pm
Poor Kathy and poor Nancy  :'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:09pm
I feel very sorry for Kathie and Nancy but I hope their happiness won't be destroyed.  Looking forward to more.  

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:22pm
*sniffles on behalf of Kathie and Nancy*
*starts chant as Catherine requested!!*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by xanthe on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:25pm
*joins the chant, improvising a harmony as she goes*

(well, I might as well do something useful while I wait for more drabble...)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:30pm
The elder woman stared at her companion.  “You can’t mean that.”
“I can, and I do.  I’m not a child, Nancy,” Kathie’s voice was softening, “And I know that love is too previous to waste, even if it involves sacrifices.”
A jumbled expression of doubt, relief and pain crossed Nancy’s face.  “Kathie, I can’t put you through that – don’t you know how it would hurt?”
“Don’t you know how much more it would hurt to lose you altogether?”  
“I – no, Kathie, I won’t let you - ”

Kathie gave the faintest smile.  “‘Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee,’” she quoted softly.  “‘For whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge.  Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.’”
A tear trickled down Nancy’s cheek.  “‘Where thou diest, will I die,’” she whispered, “‘and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.’”’
They stared at one another in silence for a moment.  Then Kathie reached out her hand to brush away the tears from Nancy’s face.  

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by xanthe on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:34pm
That's so lovely... *sniffling quietly*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:50pm
That was a lovely tearjerker.

I still want to know who guessed, and then blabbed something that was none of their business.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:56pm
That was lovely Catherine - also wants to know who interferred but only so I can go stamp on their head!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 14th, 2003, 10:57pm
Naomi and Ruth! How apt.

*miffed with KB for calling me coarse*
:P :P
;D

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:02pm
That was lovely.  I really hope this isn't the end of their relationship.  Come on, Catherine, tell us who blabbed!

(my computer just did something weird a minute ago - it wouldn't let me post and when I glanced at the top of the page, suddenly the date was October 26th 2003 and the Big Delete message was there!  How spooky is that!)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:04pm
I'm not religious at all, but I've always loved that bit from the book of Ruth! It's such a lovely sentiment!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Emma_N on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:07pm

on 11/14/03 at 23:02:55, catherine wrote:
(my computer just did something weird a minute ago - it wouldn't let me post and when I glanced at the top of the page, suddenly the date was October 26th 2003 and the Big Delete message was there!  How spooky is that!)


That is really spooky, I don't think I would have liked to have seen something like that because I am a major wimp when it comes to ghosts and things!! I hope that it isn't a bad sign!!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 14th, 2003, 11:15pm
I hope not too, Emma!  I suspect it had something to do with the fact that my internet connection had disconnected (it has an annoying habit of disconnecting every so often without warning!) and was in the middle of reconnecting when I pressed the back button.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 15th, 2003, 12:03am

on 11/14/03 at 22:57:50, Lisa_T wrote:
Naomi and Ruth! How apt.

*miffed with KB for calling me coarse*
:P :P
;D


I thought it was beautifully apt, too.

And I only thought the word 'spewing' was rather un-CS-like...

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:07pm
How the two women made it back to their rooms that evening without attracting attention, they could never afterwards recall.  Be that as it may, the only person they encountered was Rosalind Moore, steadfastly guarding the school's side door and awaiting their return.  That lady took one look at their weary faces and understood that further discussion that evening would be impossible.  Instead she asked simply,
"Will you come to my room tomorrow after Abendessen?  I think it might be useful to talk."  
Nancy and Kathie nodded silently, and headed to their respective quarters.

--

The next evening saw the three mistresses in the cosy St. Clare's room which Rosalind possesed by virtue of being its House Mistress.  Still feeling the awkwardness between themselves, Kathie and Nancy had chosen to sit in chairs some distance apart, with the result that their hostess was forced to turn from one to the other when speaking.  However she wisely ignored this and, having provided her guests with steaming mugs of tea, got down to business.

"Ladies, you both look tired still," she began.  "So let's not beat about the bush.  I think you'd better tell me what exactly has been going on between you, and I'll tell you something about the origins of yesterday's sermon."  She hesitated for a second.  "I will repeat what I said to you both, separately, yesterday - I won't judge you in any way, whatever you tell me.  And, it goes without saying, that I will keep it in the strictest confidence."
The two women nodded slowly, then Nancy replied first.
"Rosalind, I appreciate your kindness. I - I'm sure we both do," she shot a glance at Kathie.  "As to what has been going on between us... well... I suspect that whoever has been spreading rumours about us has got it fairly accurate."
"In the letter, if not the spirit," Kathie added quietly.
Rosalind nodded.  "I assumed so.  I wanted to be sure, though."  She paused, deep in thought for some moments.  Then she took a decision.  "Ladies, someone has made malicious insinuations in the staffroom about your relationship."  She eyed them carefully, not sure how they would receive her next words.  "But I would rather not tell you who it was."

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Chloe on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:09pm
*on tip-toes waiting for more*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:15pm
Catherine! Come on. That was only a widdle post!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:16pm
Please tell us who it is!!!!!!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Sugarplum on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:17pm
Who said u could make a cliff there ?? This board is more cliffs than level ground!!!! I wonder who it was ............ Miss Andrews  maybe?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:20pm
I would have thought more likely one of the older ones perhaps.

Catherine - please post again and make Rosalind tell us! ;D

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:33pm
Oh please don't leave it there!  Tell us!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Esmeralda on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:36pm
Leave Kathie and Nancy in ignorance if you must Catharine, but please let us know who it was.
I'm not so sure that it would necessarily be an older person - prejudice isn't always related to age.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:41pm
*can't believe that we're still waiting.......* :o :o :o

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 15th, 2003, 10:44pm

on 11/15/03 at 22:36:06, Esmeralda wrote:
Leave Kathie and Nancy in ignorance if you must Catharine, but please let us know who it was.
I'm not so sure that it would necessarily be an older person - prejudice isn't always related to age.


Sorry Esmeralda - didn't mean it as generalisation against age - only that in that time (1950's) the older generation might have been less receptive.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 15th, 2003, 11:01pm
Maybe the person who blabbed was jealous?
And took their revenge in the most obvious way?

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 15th, 2003, 11:04pm
We-ll.......  ;D

Goodness only knows where I'm going to leave this story tonight.  Still have to wash clothes, pack suitcase, finish a TOR for a paper on trade in textiles, write a presentation on poverty monitoring (and yes, tonight I agree with all the previous comments about how boring a subject it is!), and email about a dozen people.  All before I leave for the airport at 6am.  Oh, and did I forget sleep?!  *hollow laughter*

Btw, if anyone feels like wishing me good luck for my trip to Uganda, it would be gratefully received ;)  I'm actually quite nervous!

--

Her listeners raised their eyebrows at this.  
“I’m sure you have good reasons for saying that,” Kathie remarked carefully.  “But if someone wishes to hurt us, wouldn’t it be better if we knew who?”
The head of geography frowned slightly to herself.  “Perhaps I should explain.  Someone has been spreading rumours.  But she will not be doing so again.”
“How can you know?” Nancy was apprehensive.
“Because I have spoken to her in private.”  Rosalind gave a grim smile.  “As it happens, she has certain skeletons in her own cupboard, and I am one of the few people who know what they are.  When it became clear that she was deliberately causing trouble for the two of you, I informed her that I would make my own knowledge public if she persisted.  Unfortunately, it was too late to stop her talking to the pastor,” a shadow crossed Rosalind’s face.  “But I doubt that the speculation will continue, without her support.  You are both too widely liked for that.”
Kathie was still uncertain.  “Are you really sure?”
“Yes.  She will be giving you a very wide berth in future,” Rosalind’s tone was confident.  “Moreover, should I leave the school before you, while she is still here, I will share my knowledge with you, so you have some means of defence.  But in the meantime,” she paused, “I truly believe it better not to tell you her name.  You would be too angry to act normally towards her, and it would only make your situation worse.”

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Trish on Nov 15th, 2003, 11:05pm
Esmeralda's quite right Catherine. Don't let Rosalind tell Nancy and Kathie who it was if you must, but surely she can tell us. We won't tell them, promise!  ;D

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Esmeralda on Nov 15th, 2003, 11:18pm
Nothing to apologise for Lesley,  it's just that I've come across some extremely prejudiced young people, which isn't to say that all young people are prejudiced of course - I think it's as much a matter of upbringing and education as of age.
Incidentally, and I know this is off the point a bit, while our new building was being constructed everyone was in one large office for a time.  During those few months we had a temp working with us, he was openly gay, the male members of staff were ok with that, the two people who were most prejudiced were both female, one twenty something, the other forty something, but as a generalisation it's usually women who are regarded as being more open to alternative lifestyles. Just goes to prove that you can't trust generalisations I suppose.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 15th, 2003, 11:20pm

Yeah! Promise I won't tell them. Just desperate to know WHO ;D

Hope you get everything done tonight Catherine!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 15th, 2003, 11:35pm
Good luck in Uganda Catherine. Go and have a hug before you go. I'll put one there for you.



BTW if you want to tell us who it was before you go, and what their skeleton is...

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 16th, 2003, 12:10am
Good luck on your trip to Uganda, Catherine!! And thank you for the installment!!

*wondering whether Rachel might be inspired to start a spin off about the scandal monger and her skeleton?*
(and yes, Rachel, if you're reading this, that is a hint!!!)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 16th, 2003, 12:19am

on 11/16/03 at 00:10:40, Vikki wrote:
*wondering whether Rachel might be inspired to start a spin off about the scandal monger and her skeleton?*
(and yes, Rachel, if you're reading this, that is a hint!!!)



What a good idea Vikki. How about it Rachel?
You can do this as well as write the christmas drabbles can't you? We all know how multi-faceted you are after all.

Presuming that Catherine doesn't mind of course. Maybe you will get it closer than you did with Hilda's letters!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 16th, 2003, 12:22am
I've been getting withdrawal symptoms from Rachel's silliness...... ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 16th, 2003, 12:28am
Well, I certainly don't mind if Rachel wants to take a guess  *whistles unconcernedly*  

On the other hand, I think you only need to look through the archived and current drabbles, and you will find that virtually every member of the CS community has some skeleton in their cupboard  ;D ;D

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 16th, 2003, 12:31am
*hears the rattle of a million bones......*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 16th, 2003, 1:03am
Well, Catherine, this is certainly going to be a nasty situation, but I'm afraid that unless Rosalind tells them, they will behave suspiciously to every member of the staff, which could be difficult.

And have a wonderful trip. Make sure you tell us all about it when you return.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 16th, 2003, 3:38am

on 11/16/03 at 01:03:59, KB wrote:
I'm afraid that unless Rosalind tells them, they will behave suspiciously to every member of the staff, which could be difficult.


We-ell.... but given the situation they're in, perhaps a bit of extra caution would be a good thing, no?

OK OK, I'll tell the truth about who blabbed....





















































...I don't know yet - my PB hasn't told me!  I can't think of anyone who would be nasty enough to do such a thing!!!  LOL.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 16th, 2003, 3:43am
*giggle* That was nasty. Okay, so who are all the possible culprits?
Sharlie Andrews
Hilda Annersley
Davida Armitage
Julie Berne
Joan Bertram
Peggy Burnett
Gillian Culver
Jeanne de Lachennais
Rosalie Dene
Sarah Denny
Tristan Denny
Ruth Derwent
Dollie Edwards
Miss Johnson
Herr Laubach
Dorothy Lawrence
Celine Lenoir
Gwynneth Lloyd
Anna Mieders
Miggi (maid)
Violet Norton
Gertrude Rider
Herr Steinach
Ivy Stephens
Nell Wilson
Matron Wood

Who couldn't it be?
Biddy Courvoisier
Kathie Ferrars
Rosalind Moore
Nancy Wilmot

Does that narrow it down at all? ;D

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 16th, 2003, 3:58am
LOL!
OK, first thoughts...

not Sharlie - too nice - unless she's secretly jealous?
Hilda, Nell - also much too nice, would have had a private word if they'd really felt that strongly, not gossiped
Davida Armitage - possible?  mentioned as being 'great friends' with Peggy Burnett elsewhere... (not sure what implications that could have, but sounds potentially suspicious ;))
Rosalie, Peggy - just can't see them being that nasty
Gill Culver - wouldn't have known, surely, being at St Mildreds
None of the Matrons - they're nasty enough, but too predictable - they've been evil in so many threads already.

... the problem is that the rest just seem too bland to play such a big role... or am I underestimating them?

Btw, why not Biddy?  Did I say anything about her being particularly understanding??

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 16th, 2003, 4:05am
I figured that, as she and Hilary Graves were sharing a house (or at least did later) she might already have known. Although that might be the very way to have it happen. I do like Biddy, but it might be interesting to see another side of her character, although I'm not sure what her skeleton in the closet would be...

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 16th, 2003, 5:36am
Ooops - this wasn't the natural pause I meant to leave the story at!  RL kicked in with something of a vengeance last night (or do I mean this morning?  It's all blurring into one sleepless expanse!)  Anyway I shall entrust you all with hunting out the perpetrator of this vile deed, and look forward to seeing your conclusions when I get back :)

*blows kisses all round before departing for the wilderness*
:-* :-*

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Emma_N on Nov 16th, 2003, 1:05pm
I hope that you have a brilliant trip Catherine! My bets are on Joan Bertram!!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by xanthe on Nov 16th, 2003, 3:33pm
Ooooooooooooooooooooooooh.

Hope you have a good trip Catherine...

*hoping it will inspire you to write lots more story as well*  ;)

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 16th, 2003, 8:57pm
I don't think it would have been Hilda or Nell. They are not in the staff room much and would have dealt with it much better anyway.

Biddy, Peggy or Sharlie would be top of my list. Did Catherine specify staff, or could it be Joey? Davida Armitage and Joan Bertram could be possible, and it would be possible for the Denny's to have concocted it between them.

I agree that the rest are too colourless, even we tend to ignore them in drabbles. Hmm, there is another idea for a FCS drabble lurking there somewhere I think.

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 16th, 2003, 11:05pm
You mean like writing a literal version of 'CS in the Oberbland'? ;D

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Carolyn P on Nov 16th, 2003, 11:09pm
Possibly. Are you going to try it. I'm no good at FCS stories, never been able to satisfy myself on a storyline, so never started one.

Title: !
Post by Lisa_T on Nov 16th, 2003, 11:14pm
*g* No way! I'm trying to do some serious writing (trying is the operative word. I'm stuck on chapter five) and am revolving ideas about Hilda and Nell in Ab Fab, so someone else can take Oberbland on! ;)

Vikki, Rachel? We all know what colourful imaginations you have. Just the thing to relieve the blandness! Carolyn, I'm sure you could write FCS if you tried. *seems to remember some of Carolyn's suggestions on the Lesley bashing thread (poor Lesley!) were worthy of Dr Venables itself!*

BTW, why are you so sure it wasn't Rosalind Moore? She could have started the rumours and is now being nice to deflect suspicion from herself. After all, was it really necessary to tell them that people were talking and then say no more? (nearly put moore but thought that would be a bad pun too far!)

Title: Re: !
Post by Vikki on Nov 16th, 2003, 11:20pm

on 11/16/03 at 23:14:43, Lisa_T wrote:
*g* No way! I'm trying to do some serious writing (trying is the operative word. I'm stuck on chapter five) and am revolving ideas about Hilda and Nell in Ab Fab, so someone else can take Oberbland on! ;)

Ah, so that's why chapter five hasn't appeared in my e-mail yet!!!
Hope the stuckness ends soon!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 17th, 2003, 12:38am
*thinks Lisa has a rather evil mind*

And I'm wondering about Biddy...

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Catherine_B on Nov 17th, 2003, 8:38am
*waving vigorously at everyone from kampala!*

unexpectedly online so thought i'd say hello.  got here at midnight last night after 15 hours travelling, it was all pitchy black and i had no idea whether i was in a city or the middle of nowhere - drew back my curtains this morning to discover the lushest, greenest, rollingest hills i've ever seen.  totally blissed out :) :) :)  

generally very cheerful and also happy at being in the oxfam office here which feels like home from home.  they have all the same campaigns posters about fair trade, conflict etc that we have back in oxford... only here it feels a lot more real, less about media and campaigns and PR, and more about what our partners actually do to make a difference in people's lives.

and as a bonus, my boss's flight has got delayed, so instead of giving a presentation now for which i am completely unprepared, i have a couple of hours to get my head together and find something intelligent to say!  <relief>

*smiling beatifically*


Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Emma_N on Nov 17th, 2003, 10:49am
:) Glad you arrived there safely Catherine, it sounds like a lovely place judging by your description about the view from your window. It's very good news about your boss being delayed!!  :) Hope the presentation goes really well!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Vikki on Nov 17th, 2003, 3:58pm
Glad you arrived safely Catherine! Hope the presentation goes well!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lisa on Nov 17th, 2003, 4:14pm
Good luck, Catherine. While you're out there I hope you get really recharged & refreshed. Take some pictures!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by KB on Nov 17th, 2003, 8:16pm
Glad you arrived safely, Catherine. It sounds like you're going to have an amazing time and do a lot of good works while you're over there! Hope we'll get occasional reports now and then!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Lesley on Nov 17th, 2003, 8:30pm
Hope you're having a good time catherine - also hope when boss finally appears he/she will have forgotten that you have to give a presentation!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by Rachael P on Nov 19th, 2003, 1:40pm
Catherine,

Beautiful, as usual!
I'm glad Nancy has been prevented from resigning ...

Please don't leave us in the lurch for too long before you tell us who the traitor is in the staff room ...

I absolutely LOVE Rosalind in all this - I think she's being a true friend, whatever she may personally think!

I hope you're having a wonderful time in Uganda and that the local plot bunnies provide you with lots of inspiration!!

Title: Re: An Alternative Romance - Part IV
Post by catherine on Nov 19th, 2003, 8:38pm
Good to know you're there safely, Catherine.  I hope the presentation went well!



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